Updated 22.50pm

THE BROTHER OF Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams has been sentenced to 16 years in prison.

Liam Adams had previously been found guilty of abusing his eldest daughter more than 30 years ago.

Adams was sentenced to 16 years in prison, with two years probation upon his release. If he serves his full term, he will be 74 when he is released.

Adams, 58, laughed with prison guards as he was taken from Belfast Crown Court to begin his sentence.

His victim, Aine, now 40, watched from the public gallery and did not speak to reporters afterward.

She testified against her father after accusing Sinn Fein, and specifically her uncle Gerry, of trying to silence her and save the party embarrassment.

The Rape Crisis Network welcomed the length of the sentence.

Fiona Neary RCNI Director said: “Áine Adams has spent decades holding firm to the truth about her father’s abuse of her in incredibly difficult circumstances. Today that truth has been heard and vindicated at every level. The 16-year sentence given to Liam Adams is a serious and clear signal that acknowledges the full scale of the abuse he subjected Áine to.”

AP contributed additional reporting

Read: Liam Adams found guilty of rape and sexual abuse